Everything You Need To Know About Bacterial Vaginosis
For starters, it can increase the risk of being infected with STDs, or even cause pregnancy complications
Let's face it: it's not sexy, but we have to talk about bacterial vaginosis, otherwise known as BV. Research has shown that 35% of women between the ages of 15 and 44 will get it at least once in their lifetime, and up to 19% of pregnant women will also face this issue.
This vaginal infection doesn't have to happen because of a sexually transmitted disease, but is definitely uncomfortable and needs treatment. Without the proper treatment, women can experience recurring episodes, which can negatively affect their everyday lives.
Dr Grace Huang from DTAP Clinic tells us about its causes, symptoms and treatment measures.
Here’s the thing: While BV is not a sexually transmitted disease, it is commonly found in sexually active women. It happens when your natural flora is out of balance, leading to an overgrowth.
According to Dr Huang, there are factors that can increase the risk of developing bacterial vaginosis. These include having multiple sexual partners, exposure to a new sexual partner, lack of barrier protection (condoms) during intercourse, as well as practices like vaginal douching, which can disrupt the vaginal bacterial balance. Contrary to popular belief, it is not caused by poor hygiene.
The common symptoms include the following:
A noticeably foul-smelling vaginal odour that doesn't go away even after a wash
An increase in vaginal discharge that may be greyish or cream in colour
Vaginal itching or a burning sensation
BV differs from yeast infections in that the latter is caused by an overgrowth of yeast and usually doesn't have a strong odour.
However, in some cases BV can be asymptomatic. This may be tricky as BV can have an impact on your health if left untreated.
“While most cases are not serious, BV can place one at an increased risk of acquiring STDs or infections after gynaecological surgeries. Also, when BV occurs during pregnancy, it can cause complications like premature delivery, low birth weight, or risk of miscarriage,” says Dr Huang.
Dr Huang suggests consulting a doctor as soon as you notice any abnormal vaginal symptoms.
BV is usually treated with antibiotics, which may come in oral tablet form or intra-vaginal creams or pessaries. It is recommended to abstain from sexual intercourse if undergoing treatment. You can wear a pantyliner or light pad when using the pessaries, but keep to breathable cotton underwear whenever possible and avoid tight pants.
Also, while there is no fool-proof solution to preventing BV entirely, there are various measures that are helpful in reducing your risk.
“This includes reducing the number of sexual partners, using barrier protection (condoms) during intercourse, and observing good vaginal hygiene practices, like avoiding douching, wearing breathable cotton underwear, and avoiding scented feminine products that may upset the vaginal balance,” says Dr Huang.
Text: Melissa Huang/Her World. Updated on 4 September 2023.